"Dear Andy and CRCG,
Thanks for showing our little group a great time in beautiful West Virginia!  Even a climbing rookie like me could have a blast thanks to your patient and positive approach.  Our four-day weekend was a nice mix of hiking, biking and climbing.  After learning how much there was to do, I wished we had four more days to play.  Thanks for all the memories!
All the best,
Nick (owner of Red House Renovations)
Lititz, PA"



"I was honored to be invited to Garret College by Andy Hershey, to present to the students, staff, and community there. I felt privileged to see how Andy related to his students, his partners in business, and his friends. I can say that, I would, without reservation have Andy guide my kids, wife, and even myself on any outdoor adventure. He has the skills, credentials, and experience in multiple outdoor environments, but also that incredible sense of being able to be a wonderful person to be around in any setting. If you are lucky enough to get the chance to have Andy or his team take you on an adventure, jump at it."

Hans Florine
'World's Fastest Climber'
www.speedclimb.com



"Girl Scout Troop #55005 spent the day with Andy, Janelle, Family and Students. We had a blast. Some of the girls had never been rock climbing before and didn't want to stop. They also got to do some rappelling; they went up a "chimney" just like Santa Claus. We had six girls that day and one parent who climbed. It was a beautiful day. Andy and his crew were awesome. They are very patient and safety comes first, always.Thank you to Andy, Janelle and Crew for the awesome day we had with you. We hope to see you again next year."

Regina Green
Troop leader #550005

"My children and I drove up from Florida last week to visit my mother for an unsually long visit of several weeks.   I was looking forward to exposing my children to more of the natural beauty of the area.   The very next day after our arrival we headed to Coopers Rock, WV and were amazed by the vistas of  “Rattlesnake Trail” on our way to RockCity.  There I was inspired to inquire about Rock Climbing.  The wonderful staff at the concession stand (where I highly recommend their homemade chili atop hotdogs) referred me to the Park Ranger, who referred me to Coopers Rock Climbing Guides.  This is where the story gets really interesting:

The next day I was taking pictures of my 11 year old and 14 year old being “one with the rocks” in climbing shoes and on a climbing rope 50 feet off the ground. They quickly mastered the easier climbs, and went on to more difficult ones.  It was particularly rewarding to watch my 11 year-old, who was attempting to keep up with my nephew and his girlfriend, a WVU student and grad.  They were conquering the more difficult climbs.  Despite my finally saying “Kevin, you will be able to do this one when you are taller” he kept trying and trying and trying - UNTIL HE GOT ON AND WENT UP!  What a terrific life lesson!  I myself even experienced the thrill of climbing on the beginner climb; a real feat for a 50-something year old mom. 

The day ended with a “wahoo” as we all rappelled down 50  foot of  smooth rock! 

What made this so enjoyable were the folks who led us through this great adventure; an extremely knowledgeable (and very handsome) mid-thirties couple, named Andy and Janelle Hershey.  They have started a new company to supplement Andy’s teaching income, (he is a professor at the Adventuresports Institute of Garrett College, and have over 20 years of climbing experience between them.  They are certified climbing instructors in numerous categories.  Janelle’s Dad was along to take pictures; it is a family affair.